After effective treatment development in the 1980s, outcomes for autism have markedly improved. Many challenges, however, still remain in areas like supporting students in college, adults in the workforce, and developing new models of independent living.
This panel discussion will focus on aspects of the diagnosis of ASD in girls and women. It will include aspects of possible bias in diagnostic and screening instruments and potential factors that delay recognition of ASD in females.
Drs. Fred Volkmar, Roald Oien Ph.D. &, Clair Harrop Ph.D.
New Models of Medical and Mental Health for Adults and Youth with ASD
Dr. Fred Volkmar, MD
Description: Adolescents with autism/ASD face many challenges as they transition to adulthood. These include appropriate vocational support, independent living, and access to medical and mental health care. In this presentation, Dr. Volkmar will review the work on the best approaches to supporting the transition to adulthood and factors that predict positive outcomes. The special mental health challenges many young adults face will be summarized and approaches to care including new approaches will be discussed.
Measurement in Neuropsychiatric Biomarkers in Autism
Dr. Adam Naples
Description: This talk will introduce attendees to current research in biomarker research in Autism Spectrum Disorders. Dr. Naples will discuss findings from large-scale biomarker research studies in autism and progress in adapting biomarker measurement to heterogeneous, including previously ineligible, populations.
The Psychopharmacology of Autism Spectrum Disorder
Dr. Christopher McDougle
Description: The purpose of this presentation is to describe the target symptoms associated with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) that may be amenable to treatment with medication; the types of medication that may be helpful for improving target symptoms associated with ASD, and the potential side effects associated with these medications. The associated target symptoms will include ADHD, Irritability (aggression, self-injury, property destruction, tantrums, and mood swings), Anxiety, Sleep Disturbances, and Language Impairment, among others.
A Roadmap for Equity in Autism Diagnosis and Care
Dr. Kate E. Wallis
Description: In this talk, I will describe disparities in autism diagnosis and interventions by race and ethnicity, sex, socioeconomic status, and cognitive ability, based on published studies. I will describe potential mechanisms through which disparities in autism diagnosis and care are perpetuated. And I will then discuss potential solutions to improve equity in autism identification and care.
Early Development in Autism
Dr. Suzanne Macari
Description: Social, emotional, and behavioral development in young children with autism is the focus of this presentation. Dr. Macari will discuss recent research on psychological development in very young children with autism, including work from longitudinal infant sibling studies.
Emerging Intersections: Autism Spectrum Disorders and Gender Identity
Dr. Roald Oien
Description: Emerging Intersections: Autism Spectrum Disorders and Gender Identity" delves into the complex relationship between autism spectrum disorders (ASD) and gender identity, particularly focusing on gender dysphoria. This talk will explore the latest research and findings in this field, including the prevalence, characteristics, and challenges faced by individuals who experience both ASD and gender dysphoria. It aims to provide an understanding of how these conditions intersect, their impact on individuals, and implications for clinical practice and support strategies. The goal is to shed light on this emerging area of study and to foster an interest and understanding of the unique experiences of these individuals.
THIS PROGRAM WAS NOT RECORDED
Impact of Elopement in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder
Silvia Pereira-Smith, M.D
Description: Elopement (also known as wandering or bolting) is a potentially life-threatening behavior that can be exhibited by children with autism, but research about this topic is limited. In addition to discussing elopement risk factors, Dr. Pereira-Smith will also highlight the impact of elopement on caregivers of children with autism and review ways to address elopement behavior.
Listening in Noisy & Distracting Acoustic Environments for Autistic Adults
Dr. Peter Wasiuk
Description: The ability to understand speech and follow conversation in noisy and distracting listening environments is crucial for effective communication, socialization, and quality of life. Autistic adults often report significant listening difficulties in the presence of background voices and other distracting sounds, which may lead to negative social, emotional, academic, and vocational outcomes in this important population. The purpose of this talk is to review research examining the diverse listening experiences of autistic adults, as well as discuss current experiments aimed at better understanding listening-in-noise for individuals with autism. Future directions and potentially beneficial interventions to meet the listening needs of the autistic community will also be discussed.
Environmental Risk in ASD: substantive results and methodological issues
Eric Fombone M.D.
Description: While the contribution of genetic factors to ASD etiology is high, the increase in ASD prevalence raises concerns about the additional contribution of environmental factors. ASD risk has been statistically associated with myriads of exposures but, with few exceptions, the causal nature of these associations remains unproven. Results do not replicate across samples and study designs and fail to adjust for confounding factors. We review some substantive findings and methodological issues relevant to this research domain.
THIS PROGRAM WAS NOT RECORDED